Duct pressure test

First of all, why would you do a pressure test? Duct work leaks all over the place anyway. I think you are looking for a flow measurement.

Requiring a pressure test and compliance with some standard will minimize leakage and reduce the heating/cooling load of the system. Thus reducing energy consumption.

Older systems of metal duct requires considerable work to minimize leakage. The adhesive aluminum or other tape fails to provide a good seal after several years of service.

Current practice in many localities is to use rigid fiberglass board with a coated sealing facing. Don't know how well it holds pressure.

The state of California has recently mandated duct pressure testing for residential applications. If you google California duct pressure test you will find a number of informative sites, along with manufacturers of duct pressure testing equipment. I have included one link that might help you however there are many others.

http://epb.lbl.gov/publications/lbnl-47308.pdf

If you want to it is relatively easy to build your own pressure testing equipment, a couple of mags and a blower is basically all you need, assuming there is no need for it to be certified.

One question do you have a The leakage test manual from SMACNA?? a copy of the procedure and calculations for the test??

Thank you

One question do you have a The leakage test manual from SMACNA?? a copy of the procedure and calculations for the test??

Thank you

I'm sorry I don't. I'm primarily involved in commercial applications, light commercial may be affected depending on what zone you're in, but we haven't run into it yet. I went to a seminar about a year ago dealing with the test however that is far as I've gone. The information should be readily available, if they get a chance to locate a source I will post the information.

"Bursting pressure" as I have seen it called, can be easily measured with a manometer. They are cheap to buy and easy to learn to use once you understand the basic concepts. Just read up on manometers.

The best way to test duct pressure is with a differential pressure manometer. ALNOR makes the best for the money. www.mitchellinstrument.com. They can answer a lot of questions for you. You can have hot wire and Pitot tube style sensors depending on what you are needing to check.Most of the instruments can measure DP, temp,air flow and velocity. All the calculations are done by the device you just plug in you duct size and take a reading. And all the conversion and calculation charts are included in the paperwork. I have done this for many years, as part of my duties. Let me know If I can help.

Also check out the Building Performance Institute

http://www.bpi.org/